You've got a Mac and a digitial camera. You've got Mac OS X. You've got iMovie and iDVD and Photoshop Elements...and a whole bunch of other stuff.

Now all you need to do is figure out how to get them to work together-so that you can stop thinking about your computer and start thinking about getting things done.

This one book is your answer-the answer to that one nagging question you have today, and the answer to all the questions about Mac OS X and computers that you're likely to have in the future.

From early on, Apple's Macintosh computer has earned a reputation as the multimedia machine. Artists, designers, and digital media professionals use Macs in their work with digital media. And now, recent advancements in computer hardware and software make it possible for you, the home user, to get in on the act.

The purpose of this book is to help you make the most of the Mac's digital media capabilities. We'll begin with the basics you'll need to know in order to use your computer, including information about the Mac OS X operating system and working with files and applications. We'll then go into detail about five specific digital media applications. In the last few chapters, we'll return to a discussion of the operating system as you learn techniques for managing and protecting your computer system and files.

While we've included tips that even seasoned users of Macs and digital media can benefit from, this book is especially written for the following:

• People who have recently switched to the Mac who want to learn the basics, as well as some of the best digital media programs available.

• Long-time Mac users who want to learn the new Mac OS X operating system, as well as work more productively with digital media.

• People who are already familiar with Mac OS X, but want to make the most of iLife—Apple's integrated suite of digital media applications.